At least 109 migrants, including 15 children, have died after a boat carrying more than 300 people capsized off the coast of Djibouti while travelling towards Yemen, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The vessel overturned near Guhere, along Djibouti’s eastern coast, between Thursday night and Friday morning, October 8 and 9. More than 80 people survived the disaster, while at least 116 others remained missing as search and rescue operations continued on Sunday, October 11.
The victims included 52 men, 42 women and 15 children. Survivors were identified as Ethiopian nationals, many of whom had embarked on the dangerous journey in search of employment and better living conditions in Gulf countries.
The IOM said its teams were working alongside local authorities to provide emergency assistance, healthcare and psychological support to survivors. Search operations were continuing amid fears that the death toll could rise.
The disaster occurred along the migration route connecting the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula across the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Thousands of migrants use the corridor despite the risks associated with overcrowded vessels, dangerous sea conditions and insecurity in Yemen.
According to the IOM, more than 900 migrants died or went missing along the route in 2025.
The agency has urged governments and international donors to strengthen rescue operations and expand safe, legal migration opportunities to prevent further loss of life.
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